The Outsiders: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

In honor of the film's 30th anniversary, Silva Screen Records recently released the newly re-mastered edition of The Outsiders original motion picture soundtrack.  Anchored by a score composed by the Academy Award winning Carmine Coppola (The Godfather Part II), the record also features a few songs from Bill Hughes and Motown legend Stevie Wonder.  Longtime fans of the film will finally be able to enjoy the most complete version of The Outsiders soundtrack to date.

Published in 1967, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a tale revolving around teenage gangs that has widely become mandatory reading for middle school students.  Director Francis Ford Coppola adapted the novel into a 1983 feature film with a cast full of up-and-coming actors of the era including C. Thomas Howell, Tom Cruise, Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze, and Diane Lane.  Coppola's father Carmine provides a rousing soundtrack that perfectly accompanies crucial moments in the storyline.  "Fate Theme" maintains a menacing marching presence while "Fire at the Church" shines with Coppola's ingenious use of dooming bells.  Most memorable is "Fight in the Park" with its plucking tones and confrontational drum buildup.

Aside from instrumentals, The Outsiders soundtrack also includes four songs.  Previously released were Bill Hughes' "Stay Gold" and "The Outside In."  Brand new to this re-mastered release is the sought-after "Stay Gold" (both original and alternate versions) by the great Stevie Wonder.  The songs definitely feel dated, but they remain enjoyable nevertheless.  Hughes' "Stay Gold" is much more broad and sweeping, but the majority of listeners will enjoy Wonder's lighter, gentler version with the dulcet tones of a harmonica.  The CD booklet features an extensive essay by Daniel Schweiger and a short piece about Carmine written by his son.  Recommended for fans of the film.